Silene menziesii is quite variable in the extent to which the inflorescence is developed and in its pubescence. This, coupled with the functionally dioecious nature of the species, has spawned a plethora of names, none of which appear to warrant recognition. The similar S. williamsii from Alaska and the Yukon Territory can be separated by its narrower lanceolate leaves that are broadest near the base and dull, usually brown, tuberculate seeds. Also, its stigmas are papillate only near the top. Silene seelyi is also very similar to S. menziesii but has dark red flowers and leaves that are smaller (to 2 cm in length) and broadest below the middle.